Torres: Three women died in Brazil after eating a suspected poisoned Christmas cake. Authorities suspect arsenic contamination.
Five family members fell ill on Christmas Eve after eating cake in Torres, Rio Grande do Sul.
The three women who passed away had consumed the cake, while the fourth woman and child are recovering.
The cake maker, one of the women who fell ill, and her 10-year-old great-nephew are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Hospital Nossa Senhora dos Navegantes reported their condition is improving, though more details about their recovery are pending.
Initial tests indicated arsenic poisoning. Investigations focus on the food source, and the cake has been seized for examination.
Authorities have also found expired food products at the location where the cake was prepared.
Local police are pursuing the hypothesis that food contamination led to the deaths. A criminal investigation is ongoing.
The poisoning has shocked the community in this tight-knit family, as Christmas Eve is widely celebrated in Brazil.
Many Brazilians, especially Catholics, consider Christmas Eve the main holiday event, with mass and large family gatherings.
As Brazil is largely Catholic, food, celebration, and family bonding are integral to their holiday traditions.
Investigating the Cause of Poisoning
Local investigators are working quickly to determine if contaminated ingredients led to the food poisoning.
Specialists in forensic analysis will further inspect the cake for toxic substances like arsenic.
Family devastated as authorities continue probing
This tragic incident has caused tremendous grief in the local community, leaving family members searching for answers.
